Lombok, Indonesia
Situated east of Bali and west of Sumbawa, Lombok is an Indonesian island part of the Lesser Sunda Island chain. Well known for its beaches and surfing spots, particularly at Kuta and Banko Banko. The vehicle free Gili Islands, off Lombok’s west coast, offer more beaches, reefs for diving and snorkeling.
This lesser known island just over the Lombok Strait from Bali packs a huge punch when it comes to beauty and natural attractions. Other than its beauty, Lombok has plenty more in its favor as well. There’s traditional culture, plush forests, terrific beaches, great hiking trails and Indonesia’s second largest volcano in Lombok.
On Lombok’s southern coast is the small town of Kuta, Which should not to be confused with Kuta, Bali, they are nothing alike. Home to charming beaches, Kuta is a place that does not have a lot but has enough of everything you will ever need. Lombok’s southern coastline provides some great places for viewing the stunning tropical sunsets. With the heat dropping out of the day and a gentle breeze, watching a sunset from a great vantage point is surely one of the best things to do in Lombok. A little east of Kuta, ‘Tanjung Ann’, has some hills from which you can watch the beautiful sunset. It’s a gentle hike up the hills, covered in grass allowing you to lie down and watch the sun sink into the sea to the sounds of the surf. Around Kuta are lots of similar hills that make for great sunset spots and it isn’t hard to find one.
In the southern part of the island, not far from Kuta, you can visit the Traditional Sasak Village. Visiting this village you can mingle with the locals, learning their history, culture and traditions. ‘Sasak’ is the name of the native people of Lombok and they make up the majority of the population of this island.
Trekking Mount Rinjani in Lombok Island is one of the best kept secrets in Indonesia. Mount Rinjani offers adventurous breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, rain forest, wildlife, hot springs, caves, challenging trekking, pristine lakes, interesting culture and of course the volcano.
While in Lombok don’t forget to visit the Gili Islands. The Gili Islands are a group of three small islands located off the north-western shore of Lombok. Gili Trawangan has a good mix with quiet and peaceful beaches on the northern and western sides. Gili Meno serves as an ultimate choice for an escape with beautifully barren beaches and a local village ban on late partying in place. Gili Air is easily Trawangan’s miniature version, and usually completes one’s Gili island hopping experience.
